How Do I Know if a Wheelchair or Transport Chair is Best?

At Liberty Oxygen and Medical Equipment, we are often asked How do I know if I should use a wheelchair or a transport chair? This is a great question! Both a wheelchair and a transport chair are used when an individual requires extra help for mobility. Both pieces of equipment can be pushed by a caregiver allowing the user to be propelled without exerting any energy. Each type of chair has their own features and both types of medical equipment come in a variety of sizes and colors. Wheelchair Just as the name suggests, a wheelchair is a chair with wheels that is used when an individual needs assistance with walking, due to illness, injury or disability. Wheelchairs come in a wide variety of styles and uses, including for sports or motor operated. Wheelchairs can be self-propelled or attendant propelled (when a person is pushing the chair from behind). There are many items to consider and keep in mind when choosing a wheelchair, such as:

• Large wheels on the side of the chair
• Folds for compact and easy storage and/or traveling
• Heavy-duty and equipped for longer distance and more rugged terrain
• Allows for more comfort if sitting for longer periods of time
• Industry compatible footrests offer simple, tool-free adjustment
• Carbon Steel frame provides strength and durability

Transport Chair Designed to be pushed from behind, a transport chair is typically smaller and lighter weight than a wheel chair and is designed to be pushed from behind as a patient transfer device. The compact size allows for the patients companion to easily lift and store the chair when not in use. Additional features include:

• Smaller wheels
• Compact size and lighter weight allow for easy storage and/or travel
• Lighter chair, better equipped for shorter distances like appointments or shopping
• Industry compatible footrests offer simple, tool-free adjustment
• Made of sturdy, lightweight aluminum

The individual user’s specific situation will determine which chair will be best. The best way to know is to stop into a Liberty Oxygen and Medical Equipment store near you and test out the options. Experience the difference in the weight of the chairs and your ability to propel yourself. Ask yourself the reason you need the chair and how will you be using it. The information above and help from one of our knowledgeable Customer Service Representatives will lead you to the most appropriate chair for you! At Liberty Oxygen and Medical Equipment, we understand the importance of using proper medical equipment for each individual’s needs. Stop in any of our eight retail locations to discuss the difference between a wheelchair and a transport chair and look over our selection of mobility equipment and medical supplies to help your senior loved one live independently. Liberty Oxygen and Medical Equipment is the premier home medical equipment provider serving Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding Twin Cities suburbs with quality equipment and outstanding customer service. We enable you to stay safe and live independently in your home by offering a comprehensive array of home medical equipment and oxygen supplies, including CPAP masks and supplies. The friendly staff at each of our locations is educated and experienced with the current insurance procedures and can work with your insurance company to ensure coverage. Your health and well-being is too important to trust to just anyone. Let the caring professionals at Liberty Oxygen and Medical Equipment assist you with the home medical equipment and other healthcare and oxygen supplies you need. Stop in any of our eight Minneapolis and St. Paul metro locations or contact us today with questions, concerns, or comments.